Tips, News and Information for Traveling the World

Monthly Archives: February 2016

Have you considered a trip to the Baltics for your next big adventure? Nestled in the northeastern corner of Europe, the countries of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia come with a number of unique surprises that are often left undiscovered by those who stick to the more traveled European routes in Paris and Rome. If you’re not yet familiar with the culture this region has to offer, now’s the time to fill in the blanks and start wondering if a trip is in your near future.

History

The rich history of these countries is one of the main selling points for those who decide to travel to the Baltics. Authentic Gothic architecture is around every corner, and the landscape is populated with a variety of castles. The architecture is so well preserved, the Baltic city centers of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are each considered UNESCO world heritage sites. Lithuania in particular offers some of the best old-world feel with cobbled streets and baroque-style buildings.

Food

When taking a break from one of the many available Baltic tours, it won’t take long before you discover some new local delicacy like bacon-filled Latvian Pīrādziņi buns. The capitals have no shortage of authentic international cuisine either, allowing visitors to sample a Baltic take on some of the more delectable dishes in Europe. Food and drinks are notoriously inexpensive, asking only about €7 for a traditional meal at a nice restaurant, so you’ll be able to sample everything you have your heart set on.

Visitor-friendly

Those who visit the Baltics for the first time are struck by how modern and technology-driven everything is. Don’t think you’ll have to endure a bus ride without wifi service, and don’t be surprised when a given city block includes a collection of world-class companies, mingling with centuries-old architecture. English is increasingly spoken, especially in the city centers where they are used to visitors from all other countries.

Start your adventure today

The best way to get started planning your trip to the Baltics is through Pacific Holidays Baltic tour packages. They offer affordable prices for a European vacation, and include all of the sights, sounds, and experiences you would hope for. For questions, you can call 800-355-8025 and a travel advisor will be available to help.

When you travel to India, you’re starting the trip of a lifetime. Everything about India is vital and colorful, from the food to the clothing to the varied landscape. However, India can also be overwhelming and tricky to navigate. Take the stress out of this amazing experience by letting a professional travel agency like Pacific Holidays handle the planning; all you’ll have to do is show up and enjoy yourself. While you’re there, remember our five tips for first time visitors and get the most out of your trip:

Burnout:
When you’re taking a trip to India, burnout is a real risk because it’s such a large and varied country. Build a ‘rest day’ into your schedule now and then for some much needed recharging. This also gives you flexibility to linger in a place you’ve come to love.

Transportation:
Distances in India are larger than you might expect, and the major roads can be absolutely packed with every mode of land transportation you can imagine. Save some time and your sanity and fly between major cities. This is especially useful if you want to experience both the farflung North and South stretches of the country. Some India Tours offer flights between popular areas as part of their package.

Food:
Indian cuisine is beloved around the world for good reason, but approach it with caution. The intense spices may upset a stomach that isn’t used to them. Street stands offer excellent value, but if you’re not careful you could catch something that will leave you sick for the rest of your trip. Avoid that by sticking to foods that are boiled, fried, or prepared fresh in front of you. Skip salads that are rinsed in local water and avoid iced drinks.

Clothing:
Show respect for local values by dressing a little more conservatively than you would back home. There’s no need to cover yourself completely in this heat and humidity, but take a hint from the locals and cover your arms and legs in clothing made from natural fibers. Remember to remove your shoes when entering a home or temple.

Bartering:
Bartering is a beloved way of life in India. Everyone does it, but this practice can seem strange to tourists who aren’t used to it. It pays to be familiar ahead of time with what the goods or services are worth and offer a little less. Then, you and the vendor can work up a fair price.

Planning a trip to Iceland will not only offer unique culture and landscape, but with the natural and man-made attractions, you’ll never be bored!

8. Whale watching: Between May and September every year, you can have the opportunity to see majestic sea creatures in their natural habitats. Not only do you get the chance to see whales, but the diversity of the marine life in Iceland means it’s likely you’ll see multiple species of whale along with other sea creatures.

7. Landmannalauger: Each area of the globe brings something unique to Earth. In Iceland, the multicolored rhyolite mountains are unlike anything else in the world, making the area popular for tourists who want to really feel the exotic nature of Iceland.

6. Aurora Borealis: Since Iceland is situated so far north, visitors have the opportunity to see the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, offering a romantic, natural light show. The best time to see the Aurora Borealis is between September and mid-April.

5. Hallgrimskirkja: For visitors interested in architecture, Hallgrimskirkja is a must-see destination. It is the tallest and best known building in Iceland, and the design was inspired by the Black Falls, also located in Iceland.

4. Gullfoss Waterfall: To see natural Iceland in all its magnificence, a summer tourist should make sure that the Gullfoss Waterfall is on the itinerary. The waterfall features three “terraces,” and no railings means you can take stunning photos of the landscape.

3. Blue Lagoon (Grindavik): In case you’re worried about Iceland being too cold, a visit to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa will warm you up! The water from the natural, underground spring reaches approximately 38 degrees Celsius, and the spa services offered will mean you leave feeling truly pampered.

2. Skaftafell Ice Cave: It would be a shame to visit Iceland without seeing some ice! The Skaftafell Ice Cave is a beautiful location for winter travelers since the ice and snow don’t melt, so adventurers can explore the winter wonderland of the cave.

1. Take in the culture: One of the benefits of travel is learning about new cultures and meeting new people. Iceland boasts a rich, unique heritage and culture full of history that will not only give you great memories, but great pictures to remember it by!